Recognizes an individual or group who advocates for public policies to improve population health, increase access to quality health care, promote human rights, or improve the social wellbeing of individuals in South Florida.

Shed Boren, L.C.S.W, Ph.D. is a social worker recognized for his advocacy. He has worked for, and on behalf of, vulnerable populations for more than 30 years, with a focus on those living with HIV/AIDS, chronic diseases, mental health challenges and in poverty. As CEO of Camillus House, Inc. and Camillus Health Concern, Inc., Boren leads both agencies to provide humanitarian services to men, women and children who are poor, homeless and vulnerable in Miami-Dade County. During his first year, Boren established a new jail diversion program, a shelter for human trafficking victims, and expanded emergency shelter beds. Boren is a highly accomplished executive leader with extensive experience in the management and development of complex health care organizations. Prior to leading Camillus, Boren served as CEO of Sister Emmanuel Hospital in Miami where he opened and operated Florida’s first co-located hospital. The Long Term Care Hospital (LTCH), co-located with Mercy Hospital, served medically complex patients with a focus on those living with chronic diseases. He also served as the founder and Director of Special Immunology Services for Mercy Hospital where he designed and implemented Miami-Dade County’s largest vertically integrated service delivery network providing medical and social services to persons living with HIV/AIDS. Boren received a Bachelor of Arts in History from Southwestern University in Georgetown, Texas, a Master of Social Work from the University of Houston, and both a Master of Business Administration in Health Administration and a Doctorate of Philosophy in Sociology from the University of Miami. To better understand bioethical issues and challenges in the hospital setting, Boren further earned a Graduate Certificate in Health Care Ethics from Saint Louis University; and, he wrote his doctoral dissertation, Ignoring Ambiguity: Legitimating Clinical Decisions, on end of life decision-making.